Every word Southampton boss Russell Martin said after Carabao Cup win at Everton
Southampton boss Russell Martin was full of praise for his team following their dramatic victory over Everton in the Carabao Cup. The Saints secured their place in the next round with a hard-fought 2-1 win at Goodison Park, in what was a thrilling and tense encounter. Here’s everything Martin had to say about the match, the players, and the club’s prospects moving forward.
**On the win against Everton:**
“First of all, I’m so proud of the team. It was a really tough game against a Premier League side, and I think we showed great character to come through it. To go away from home, in a cup competition like this, and come out on top is no small feat. The players gave everything, and I think the fans could see that out there. It’s a big win for us.”
**On the team’s performance:**
“We’ve been talking a lot about belief and the importance of playing with confidence, and I think tonight the lads really embodied that. Everton is a very strong side, and they put us under a lot of pressure, but we stood firm. Defensively, we were excellent, and I thought we showed some real moments of quality going forward as well. The way we managed the game after taking the lead was very mature.”
**On standout players:**
“It’s hard to single anyone out because it was a real team effort, but I thought the midfield was superb tonight. They worked incredibly hard, breaking up play and driving us forward when we needed it. The backline was solid, and our goalkeeper came up big when we needed him most. The substitutes made a real impact as well. It’s those kinds of performances that win you cup ties.”
**On progressing in the Carabao Cup:**
“Advancing in the cup is always great. It gives us something to build on and keeps the momentum going. We want to make sure we take that confidence into the league as well. These cup runs are special because they give the whole club and the fans something to look forward to. We’ll take it one game at a time, but we’re excited for the next round.”
**On the importance of building consistency:**
“This result is a big step in the right direction, but it’s important that we don’t get carried away. We’ve got to build on this, and that means putting in the same level of performance week in, week out, whether it’s in the league or the cup. The group is starting to come together, and we’re seeing the fruits of that on the pitch, but we have to stay focused.”
**On the team’s growth under his leadership:**
“When I first came in, we talked a lot about identity and what we wanted to be as a team. I think we’re starting to see that now. We’re playing with more confidence, and the players are trusting in the system. It’s not going to happen overnight, but we’re on the right track. Nights like this are great for the group because they build belief.”
**On the next round and ambitions for the cup:**
“We’ll see who we get in the next round, but we’re not afraid of anyone. This competition is one we want to go far in. Cup runs bring so much energy to the club, and the players love the challenge of these big games. It’s a chance to test ourselves against the best, and we’ll give it everything.”
**On the support from the fans:**
“The fans were incredible tonight. You could hear them all game, and it makes such a difference when you’ve got that kind of support behind you. They’ve been with us through thick and thin, and it’s great to be able to give them nights like this. Hopefully, there are many more to come.”
With the victory over Everton, Russell Martin’s Southampton side marches on in the Carabao Cup, full of confidence and optimism as they look to build on this performance in the league and beyond. Fans will eagerly await the next round draw, as the Saints aim to keep their cup run alive.
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